Former NCSU coach diagnosed with cancer

ABC11 has confirmed former NCSU Head Football Coach Chuck Amato has been diagnosed with throat cancer.

Amato said Wednesday he will undergo treatment due to a cancerous spot located on his tonsil. Thanks in large part to an early detection, a full recovery is expected.

"I appreciate the concern and prayers of the Wolfpack nation," Amato said. "The prognosis is optimistic, which is very encouraging, and with the grace of God and the support of my family and friends, I will get through this.

The 63-year-old said the problem was originally discovered in December.

At NC State, Amato accumulated an overall record of 49-37, including a record of 34-17 during the four-year period from 2000 through 2003. His most successful season was in 2002 when the Wolfpack finished the season ranked #12 in the national AP college football poll.